Tube worms are marine invertebrates that belong to the class Polychaeta. They typically live in tubes made of secreted materials or debris, which provide protection from predators and environmental conditions. These worms can be found in various ocean habitats, including deep-sea vents and shallow waters.
Many tube worms have a symbiotic relationship with chemosynthetic bacteria, which convert chemicals from their environment into energy. This allows tube worms to thrive in nutrient-poor areas where sunlight cannot reach. They play an essential role in their ecosystems by contributing to the food web and helping to recycle nutrients.